The seat allocation formula between Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) should take into account the current political situation rather than relying only on the outcome of the previous state election, said Kedah Umno information chief Shaiful Hazizy Zainol Abidin.
He said changes in political trends and voter preferences happen quickly, making past election results an unsuitable sole reference for deciding seat distribution or future cooperation between the two coalitions in Kedah.
“The seat allocation formula must be based on the current circumstances and realities. The previous state election results should not be the only factor in determining the formula,” he told FMT.
Shaiful was commenting on speculation over whether the seat-sharing arrangement between BN and PN, which was implemented during the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections, could be expanded to other states.
Previously, political analyst Mazlan Ali said the strength of BN-PN cooperation would face a major test in PAS strongholds, including Kedah, where negotiations over seat allocation could prove challenging.
The Universiti Teknologi Malaysia academic highlighted that BN currently does not hold any parliamentary or state seats in Kedah, making discussions over seat distribution more complicated.
In the 2023 Kedah state election, BN contested alongside Pakatan Harapan (PH) but failed to secure any state seats. PN, led by its election director Sanusi Nor, won 33 out of 36 state assembly seats, while PH captured the remaining three.
Shaiful said Kedah Umno is currently adopting a cautious approach towards the possibility of cooperation with PN.
“Until now, no discussions have taken place and Kedah Umno has not received any instructions from the party’s top leadership.
“However, if directed, Kedah Umno has no issue cooperating under any framework that is decided,” he said.
BN and PN previously worked together in the Negeri Sembilan state election, where the two coalitions later formed the state government after winning 25 out of 36 state assembly seats.
